BUREAU OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

CAPITOL HILL, MONROVIA

NEWS SUMMARY, FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2024 THROUGH THRUSDAY JUNE 6, 2024

Today’s edition of our weekly summary is dominated by stories of President Boakai Recognizition of Miatta Fahnbulleh’s Efforts As He Makes New Nominations In Government, President Boakai Calls For Concerted Actions To Achieve Africa’s Transformative Future At Opening of Korea-Africa Summit, AfDB announces over $ 3.5bn mobilization for Liberty Corridor, Boakai Suspends Drug Enforcement Agency Boss, Deputies Amid Infighting and Damaging allegations and Archbishop Jubwe visits President Boakai.

Other stories include the UK Investors visit Liberia, Liberia’s private sector sets a life with US$6M LIFT Project Initiative, AML ramps-up recruitment for phase 2 expansion project, Justice Ministry meets former Chief Justice Scott’s family! - Official response expected soon, forest sector carbon readiness gap assessment report validated and BEA Mountain mandated to halt contractors’ termination, among others.

DOMINANT STORIES

President Boakai Finally Recognizes Miatta Fahnbulleh’s Efforts As He Makes New Nominations In Government

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has finally recognized the services rendered by Miatta Fahnbulleh’s inaugural committee for his official takeover ceremony. The inaugural program’s poor organization brought Aunty Miatta, as she is fondly known, under heavy criticism. To make matters worse, president Boakai passed out during the ceremony from heat exhaustion while delivering his speech. However, over the weekend, a release from the Executive Mansion indicated that President Boakai was pleased with the work of the inaugural committee. In the release, the President praised Madam Miatta Fahnbulleh, Chairperson of the 2024 Inaugural committee, and committee members for their selfless service and meticulous planning of the inaugural activities, the New Liberia newspaper writes.

Related Caption: President Boakai Reiterated His Utmost Confidence In The Integrity Of Madam Fahnbulleh, Whom He Considers A National Icon (WOMEN VOICES)

Boakai Urges Africa First Summit Delegates In South Korea – Toe Foster Better Future For Citizens (Frontpage Africa)

President Joseph Nyumah Boakai has rallied African leaders to work through concerted effort in order to achieve deliberate actions for the people. President Boakai speaking at the summit reminded the delegation that the future is not guaranteed; “we must determine it by deliberately taking actions that will leverage our potential to achieve common goals and faster a better future for our people, a equitable and future”, he reemphasized. According to him such can be achieved in firm partnership with the pound people of Korea who have taught them the importance of human capital, their greatest resource in transforming the future of their respective nation. According to the In Profile Daily, he wants the summit to future foster South-South cooperation to address mutual development issues in the global south adding that no nation can address the myriad of complex global challenges alone. According to the Liberian leader, it is by standing together in solidarity that they can bring their collective efforts to bear tackling climate change, disease, hunger, poverty, and the many problems that plague them collectively. Speaking at the first Korea, Africa Summit on the theme, the future We Make Together. Shard Growth, Sustainability, and Solidarity” he stated that the twin processes of globalization and technological advancement have spurred growth and economic development globally. The Liberia leader emphasize that shared growth and a shared future must also be pursued in tandem with Agenda 2063, the pan-African effort to promote collective prosperity, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the World Sustainable Development Goals.

Related Caption: President Boakai Calls For Concerted Actions To Achieve Africa’s Transformative Future At Opening of Korea-Africa Summit (Frontpage Africa)

AfDB announces over $ 3.5bn mobilization for Liberty Corridor

The African Development Bank Group says it is in very strong financial shape and ready to contribute to major development projects on the Continent. Monrovia, June 3, 2024: African Development Bank (AfDB) president Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina has announced the mobilization of 3.5 to 5 billion dollars for the Liberty Corridor linking Liberia and the Republic of Guinea.

The Executive Mansion posted a press statement on its website on June 1, 2024, revealing the package. At the Bank’s 2024 Annual Meeting, which was held in Nairobi, Kenya, the statement said the Bank announced, among other initiatives on the African continent, that it is “mobilizing $3.5 billion to $5 billion towards the development of the Liberty corridor to link Liberia and Guinea.” Dr. Adesina delivered the speech on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, at the Kenyatta International Conference Center.  He noted that “African economies are showing resilience, despite the challenges posed by climate change, geopolitical tensions, global inflation, and rising debt, among others.” The resources being raised by the Bank for the Liberty Corridor Project will heavily impact the consortium of investors led by HPX and Guma Group which are champions of the undertaking, WOMEN VOICES newspaper writes.

Related caption: AfDB Announces Mobilization of over 3.5B For Liberty Corridor (IN PROFILE), AFDB MOBILIZES $ 3.5 BILLION (NEW LIBERIA)

Boakai Suspends Drug Enforcement Agency Boss, Deputies Amid Infighting and Damaging allegations

The Frontpage Africa newspaper is reporting that President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., has suspended the Director General, Mr. Abraham S. Kromah, Deputy Director General for Administration, Mr. Gbawou Kowou, and the Deputy Director General for Operations, Mr. Hassan Fadiga of the Liberian Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA). In a statement signed by Anthony V. Kesselly, deputy minister of state for public affairs, their suspension takes immediate effect and without pay, pending investigation. “The President has in the meantime ordered an investigation of the events occurring at the Agency on June 3, 2024. He-said, “the acts of disorder and chaos that took place at the headquarters of the LDEA were unacceptable.” Such acts, the President continued, threaten public peace and undermine the Government’s fight against illicit drugs,” the statement said. In the interim, the President has named Mr. Christopher Peters, as Officer in Charge (OIC) of the Agency pending the conclusion of the investigation. Peters is a well-trained security personnel and comes highly recommended, the statement added.

Related Cation: Boakai Suspends LDEA Bosses (In Profile Daily)

Archbishop Jubwe visits President Boakai

Monrovia-A high-powered delegation from the Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia, led by Archbishop Dr. Monsignor Gabriel Blamo Snosio Jubwe, has pad a courtesy call on President Joseph Nyuma, Boakai at the Executive Manson. The Archbishop expressed gratitude for the government’s representation at his recent ordination and conveyed the Church’s willingness to support the government’s initiatives in various areas, including governance, justice, education, health and spiritual guidance. In his remarks, Archbishop Jubwe expressed the willingness to cooperate and support the government’s efforts in promoting good government’s efforts in promoting good governance, justice, peace, education, health and spiritual guidance. According to Daily Observer news, Liberians on Saturday, May 4, witness the dawn of a new era when Rev. Monsignor Jubwe was ordained as the Archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Monrovia. With the ordination, the 65-years-old cleric will fill the position left vacant by the retirement and passing of his predecessor, Lewis Jerome Zeigler, in August 2022. The new Archbishop promised to be a selfless leader who will reconcile and unite the church in Liberia and pursue healing and national unity. Under his leadership, he said the Church is open to serve as guardian and good counsel to the country’s political leadership, the Archbishop said. “We assure you that together we can restore the hope and the various aspirations of our people through the country.

Related Caption: Archbishop Jubwe visits President Boakai (The Profile Daily)

OTHER STORIES:

President Boakai Attends Korea-Africa Business Summit-In Seoul, South Korea

The WOMEN VOICES newspaper is reporting that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., departed Liberia for South Korea, on Saturday, June 1, 2024, as Head of the Official Liberian delegation to the Korea-Africa Summit scheduled to take place in Seoul, Korea. The summit, which is being held for the first time, brings together Heads of states from Africa, Business Leaders, International Partners from the Global South and a host of many others. They even will provide a vital platform for Liber to showcase its investment potential and explore opportunities for support to key sectors including agriculture, roads, energy, tourism, and technology. President Boakai is expected to speak at the opening session at the “Strengthening Food and Mineral Security” Forum of the Korea-Africa Business Summit. His Excellency will also hold bilateral talks with H.E Yook Sul Yeol, President of South Korea and other leaders and entrepreneurs on the margins of the summit. (WOMEN VOICES).

UK Investors Visit Liberia… Commit To Do Business In The Country

The visiting uni commerce Group International (UGG), investment delegation has told officials of the Government of Liberia, that it has an interest in investing agriculture, road construction, seaport rehabilitation, energy expansion, and cross-border transportation. The group is expected to submit a comprehensive investment proposal to the Government of Liberia later this week. The investors met with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on the weekend and expressed their commitment to doing business in Liberia, the WOMEN VOICES newspaper asserts.

WHO Rallies African Nations Against Tobacco Industry

According to the WOMEN VOICES newspaper, as the world observes world No Tobacco Day amidst the 77^th World Health Assembly, WHO regional Director, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, has emphasized the need to address the dangers associated with tobacco us and exposure to tobacco smoke. Her words: “Countries should implement and enforce 100% ban on public smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping), apply excise tax and price measures to reduce tobacco consumption, and implement effective measures to communicate health risks through graphics health warnings to population, including children and youth. Highlighting the decline in tobacco use globally and the challenges posed by the tobacco industry, Dr. Moeti calls for international efforts to shield young people from harmful tobacco and nicotine products.

Liberia’s Private Sector Gets a life with US$6M LIFT Project Initiative

The government, through the Ministry of Commerce, Centra Bank of Liberia, Afriland Bank, Citi Trust, and the Liberian Enterprise Development Finance Company (LEDFC), signed the participating agreements for a Line of Credit (LOC) under the World Bank Liberia Investment Finance and Trade (LIFT) Project. The Daily Observer newspaper reported that Jay Gble-bo Brown, head of the Development Finance Section at the CBL, said the project also aims to strengthen the CEL’s ability to implement the scheme through training and advisory service.  “Today makes an important moment as part the concerted efforts to promote access to sustainable finance for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Liberia,” Brown stated. “We are delighted to be part of this significant even that ushers in the implementation of the LOC under the LIFT project.” According to him the LOC is a key component of the World Bank funded LIFE Project, which aims to support an MSME leading scheme. “This scheme, he said, will provide US$6 million to participating financial institutions (PFIs) for on-lending to eligible SMEs, alongside an additional USD$1 million for technical assistance to PFIs and the CBL. Funding source for the LOC include government funds, donor contributions, grants, loan repayments, interest on loans, and other related sources.

Scheduled Internet Outage for Repair Works on ACE Submarine Fiber to Affect Liberia

The Cable Consortium of Liberia announces that the ACE Submarine Cable network is scheduled to perform repair  work on a segment of the optical fiber cable between Dakar and Abidjan, which is segment 2.1 of the ACE Submarine Cable Network that connects Liberia to the out side world. According to the release from the CCL, signed by Henry W. Benson, Chairman and CEO, the scheduled repair will be performed on 31st May 2024 00H01 UTC to 31st May 2024 10H00 UTC (10 hours duration). During these repair hours, all internet traffic transiting ACE Segment 2.1 including traffic from Monrovia, Anidjan, Freetown, Conakry and Banjul to Europe will be down, the Daily Observer newspaper reports.

JUSTICE MINISTRY MEETS FORMER Chief SCOTT’S FAMILY! - Official Response Expected Soon

According to the In Profile Daily newspaper, after After several weeks of communications and visits at the Ministry of Justice, the family of former Chief Justice Gloria Musu Scott, on Tuesday, May 28, 2924, met with officials of the Ministry of Justice, with an assurance that through the Ministry, the Government of Liberia will respond to the family’s concerns and issues raised in their communications. Dozens of family members and friends of Cllr. Scott’s family on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, stormed the 14th Street offices of the Justice Ministry to demand answers to their numerous communications to the Ministry concerning mistakes and deliberate missteps that characterized the investigation and trial of their family members. Following thunderous chanting of battle cries, traditional, and religious singing at the Ministry of Justice on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, six members of the family were selected to meet authorities of the Ministry, after which they disclosed that the government, through the Ministry, has vowed to issue an official response. Below are the issues raised by the family in their communications to, and meeting with the the Ministry of Justice in the last couple of weeks including the date mentioned. “Mr. Attorney General and Minister of Justice, we have formally brought this matter to you and your office relying on TITLE 12, The Executive Law, Approved: May 11, 1972 and Published: June 9, 1972, § 22.2, which states, inter alia,: It shall be the duty of the Minister of Justice to   (a) Procure the proper evidence for, and conduct, prosecute, or defend all suits and proceedings in the courts in which the Republic of Liberia or any officer thereof, as to such officer, is a party or may be interested. (Emphasis ours),  (b) Institute all legal proceedings necessary for law enforcement,” the communication presented to the office of Justice Minister and Attorney General, Oswald Tweh by the family of Justice Gloria Musu Scott states.

House Probes Miners Over Pollution

The House of Representatives is investigating a mining company over a media report of pollution in the historic Montserrado township of Harrisburg. The House’s Committee on Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Environment investigation wrote Z&C Investment Company, which operates a quarry in Harrisburg, to appear before it on Thursday. “The Decision of the committee to cite you is triggered by a grave report received by the House’s Committee… about the escalating issue of water, air and noise pollution within Harrisburg,” Anthony Williams, head of the committee and Maryland Representative, said in a letter, seen by The DayLight. The committee’s decision comes barely a week after a DayLight report exposed alleged pollution caused by Z&C’s operation. It found the company’s use of explosions was destroying homes, while it backfilled water sources used by residents. Z&C obtained a quarry license from the Ministry of Mines and Energy to quarry rocks on 50 acres near the St. Paul River. “The Committee… has learned that the quarry’s activities have led to significant contamination of water sources in that area… and are also contributing to deteriorating air quality and damages to homes,” Williams’ letter noted, says the In Profile Daily newspaper.

Forest Sector Carbon Readiness Gap Assessment Report Validated

On May 27, a significant milestone in Liberia’s commitment to sustainable forest management and climate action was achieved as key stakeholders convened at the Corina Hotel in Monrovia for the review and validation of feasibility studies supporting the Forest Sector Carbon Roadmap and Actions for Liberia. The primary objective was to get feedback and advice from practitioners in the field, from their various perspectives and was part of the quality assurance efforts for finalizing the report.  This collaborative effort marks a pivotal step in ensuring the long-term preservation of Liberia’s rich forest ecosystems while contributing to global carbon reduction goals. The report presents a collaborative effort summarizing the findings of a feasibility study that identifies the status of national efforts to support carbon readiness.  It provides an actionable recommendation to the Government of Liberia, supporting its efforts to identify readiness activities, set and clarify roles, responsibilities, and capacity gaps, set timelines, and map opportunities and risks in the carbon market related to the forestry sector. The event was supported by UNDP Climate Promise in collaboration with EcoHealth Alliance under the USAID-funded Community Works Activity Project. It brought together representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), the European Union (EU), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), UNDP, NGO representatives, and civil society organizations. During the review session, stakeholders examined the findings of the feasibility studies on several key areas including policy and institutional landscape, classification of carbon, carbon rights, benefit sharing, safeguard system, and capacity building, the In Profile Daily newspaper writes.

Jury Finds Trump Guilty On All 34 Felony Counts

New York jury on Thursday convicted formal U.S. President Donald Trump of illegally trying to influence the outcome of the 2016 election that sent him to the White House, unanimously finding him guilty on all 34 felony charges he faced. The 12-member jury deliberated for two days before returning the verdict against Trump, 77, in the first-ever criminal trial of an American president. Trump is the presumptive 2024 Republican presidential nominee in the November election against President Joe Biden, the Democrat who defeated his in the 2020 election, but he now also faces the possibility of being placed on probation or imprisoned up to four years.  Trump’s sentencing was set for July 11, in the middle o his campaign to return to the White House and just days before the opening of the Republican National Convention on July 15, where he would be formally nominated as the party’s 2024 presidential candidate. Trump defence lawyer Todd Blanche asked that the verdict be overturned, but New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan quickly rejected his request. Trump is certain to appeal and can continue to run for the presidency. According to the In Profile Daily, there is no U.S. constitutional prohibition against his becoming president as convicted felon.

BEA Mountain Mandated To Halt Contractors’ Termination

The Ministry of Labour has mandated the management of Bea Mountain Mining Company in Grand Cape Mount County to immediately reinstate all workers with unexpired contracts and halt the termination of others. According to the In Profile Daily, a Labour Minister press bulletin issued in Monrovia over the weekend quotes Minister Cooper Kruah as further mandating the Bea Mountain Mining company to ensure that: “all workers who have unexpired contracts with the entity must be reinstated to their previous positions with immediate effect; and their rights to continue employment should be respected”. The Labour Ministry press bulletin further quotes minister Kruah as urging the company that : “any ongoing actions to terminate workers contract must ease immediately and ensure that any future actions related to employment status comply fully with the Liberian labour Laws and Regulations, including proper medical examination.

Senator Cyrus Identifies With Lutheran Houspital

In continuation of his support to the health sector of Lofa County and Liberia at large, Senator Momo Tarnuekollie Cyrus has put smiles on the faces of staffers and officials of the Lutheran Hospital in Zorzor District, Lofa County. The hospital strategically situated in Zorzor District caters from Lofa and surrounding counties. During the institution’s celebration, Senator Cyrus presented two thousand United States Dollars and five drums of fuel oil to the Hospital as his way of identifying with that key health facility of the county and country at large. According to him, his gesture is to appreciate the Lutheran Hospital management team and staffers for their tireless efforts and high level of work done over the period in helping to save lives in the country and Liberia at large. Senator Cyrus during the presentation reiterated that good health care delivery for the people of Lofa and Liberia in general remains key under his priorities as Senator of the Country, says the In Profile Daily.

ECOWAS Court Postpones Historic Hearing of Lutheran Church Massacre Case After Liberian Gov. Asked for More Time To “Prepare”  

MONROVIA – A historic trial between survivors of the infamous St. Peter’s Church massacre and the Liberian government at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice in Abuja, Nigeria, has again been postponed after the Liberian government asked for more time to prepare for the case. This is third the time that the case has been postponed on the government’s request, with Thursday’s adjournment coming after previous ones in November 2022 and the other in January 2023. Due to its late response to the allegations of survivors through their lawyers last February, the court granted their request for time to respond the government’s contention against their suit, the Frontpage Africa newspaper reports.

Liberia’s EPA Honors Ghana’s EPA 50th Anniversary Commemoration

The Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia, Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, has honored an invitation from the Ghanaian Environmental Protection Agency to participate in its 50th-anniversary commemoration. The event, which gathered numerous executives including ministers, executive directors, partners, and past executive directors, took place at the Alissa Hotel in Accra on May 30th, 2024. It aimed to contemplate the historical, current, and future challenges of Ghana’s EPA. The Executive Director of Ghana’s EPA, Hon. Dr. John Kingsley Krugu, highlighted the successes of Ghana’s EPA since its establishment by an Act of Parliament in 1994 (Act 490). Executive Director Krugu mentioned that the EPA replaced the Environmental Protection Council (EPC), which was established by a Decree in 1994 (NRCD 239). The EPC primarily served as an advisory body to the government of Ghana on environmental issues. The Executive Director of Ghana’s EPA listed the successes of the EPA over 50 years, including the formulation of guidelines for creating landfill sites, shaping key policies on climate change, pollution, and hazardous waste, and developing an environmental education manual for secondary school teachers to be used in all schools, the Frontpage Africa newspaper writes.

Liberia: USAID, TRIBE, Smart Liberia and YONER Launch Cohort Two for Startup Incubator.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with TRIBE, Smart Liberia, and YONER, has launched the second cohort of an agribusiness incubator and development initiative aimed at supporting Liberian entrepreneurs from five counties, including Montserrado, Bong, Grand Bassa, Rivercess, and Sinoe. This USAID-funded project seeks to foster innovative ideas from promising entrepreneurs, improve access to finance, create a stronger network of business service providers, strengthen agricultural value chains, generate employment opportunities, and enhance the overall business environment in Liberia. The first agribusiness incubator attracted over 89 applicants, with 30 successfully completing the program and eleven recipients being awarded a total of USD $110,000 to kickstart their businesses. Among the awardees, four individuals received USD $50,000, another four were granted USD $10,000, and three received USD $25,000, the Frontpage Africa newspaper reports.

Liberia: ‘Not Business as Usual – Youth and Sports Minister Bangalu Vows to Change Narratives

According to the Frontpage Africa Newspaper, the Youth and Sports Minister, Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu says the Unity Party-led Government was not part of the process leading to the appointment of Liberia football national team head coach, Mario Marinica and technical staff. According to Minister Bangalu the LFA took a unilateral decision in giving a contract to the Romanian. The Romanian tactician and his technical staff were appointed back in February, succeeding Ansu Kieta who was dismissed. Mario Marinica signed on a two-year contract with the LFA but the appointment was never approved by the Sports Ministry says Cllr Jero Cole Bangalu. Coach Marinica and technical staff’s jobs hang in the balance going into the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches against Namibia and Sao Tome and Principe on June 5 and 9.But coach Marinica has expressed his disappointment in the situation he is facing in Liberia due to three months of salary delay and not getting the needed time to train his team.

Around a Table: ACOW Seeks Meeting For Boakai, Weah, Others… Pushes For Nat’l Unity

The General Overseer and Senior Pastor of the African Church of the World (ACOW) has called for a meeting involving incumbent President Joseph N. Boakai, former President George M. Weah, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and former Vice President, Madam Jewel Howard Taylor to meet around a table. The meeting is in support of national unity, reconciliation and peace in Liberia. The Church seeks to bring the current and former Liberian leaders together aimed at strengthening peace and understanding between and among the national leaders and enhance national reconciliation and healing. The meeting, proposed by the General Overseer and Senior Pastor of the Independent Grassroots Churches of Liberia is also aimed establishing an atmosphere of collaboration and cooperation among these prominent national leaders and to put into place what the organizers call a “statement for peace-building and consolidation” in the best interest of the Liberian Nation, The Independent Newspaper writes.

AML Ramps-up Recruitment for Phase 2 Expansion Project

ArcelorMittal Liberia is recruiting many technical and low-skilled individuals for its ambitious phase 2 expansion project. The expansion, valued at over $1.7 billion, encompasses the construction of a substantial ore processing plant in Yekepa, along with upgrades to railway and port facilities. The company’s expansion is expected to meaningfully boost local employment and economic growth. Over the past months, the company has issued calls for applications from qualified candidates for various key positions. Among the roles needed are Rolling Stock Maintenance Manager, Mine Planning Engineer, and Supervisor-Construction EC & I.
Additionally, ArcelorMittal Liberia is seeking a Biodiversity Superintendent, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability. The company is also investing in the training of dozens of young technicians who will eventually work at the ore processing plant, once it is completed. To ensure that the direct mine communities benefit from this expansion, ArcelorMittal Liberia has also initiated a scholarship program, targeting school-going children in the host communities of Grand Bassa, Bong, and Nimba Countie, The Independent Newspaper reports.

Bloody Land Dispute: Citizens Clashed in River Gee… But LNP Swiftly Restores Calm

Reports originating from Glarro Administrative District in River Gee County indicate that a bloody clash broke-out recently between the people of Leopard Town and Freetown that are involved land dispute, leaving several persons seriously injured. Established in 2000, River Gee County is among few rural counties in Southeastern Liberia that have faced increasing waves of land disputes. Disenchantment has been over the Krahn-Grebo reserved, which is situated between Konobo and Glarro Statutory districts in Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties respectively. This time around, eyewitnesses in the region, told The Independent newspaper over the weekend, that intense combat ensured between Leopard Town and Freetown residents, all of whom are claiming ownership of the land. Witness told the Independent that recently the Liberia Forestry Development Authority created a three kilometer buffer zone, preventing farmers from encroaching on the “Krahn-Grebo National Park.” The people of Leopard Town, accordingly, were not in support of the FDA expansion exercise, while the idea was endorsed by the residents of Freetown, leading to increased resentment between the two towns. There were serious casualties, as over four persons “badly” sustained injuries during the clash and were taken to the nearby health facilities for medical examination and treatment.

Bloom Bank Liberia CEO Olalekan Balogun Promises to Make SMEs a “Beautiful Bride” to Access Finance

The Managing Director of Bloom Bank Liberia Olalekan Balogun has disclosed that his entity is going to partner with any organization that is upskilling Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to enhance access to finance. He made the statement at the Launch of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Growth Accelerator Liberia 4th Cohort of the Micro-Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) at the Ministry of Commerce & Industry in Congo town. According to the Managing Director of Bloom Bank Liberia, there are lots of opportunities in Liberia for the SMEs space. He added that the SME space in Liberia is still a virgin with rich opportunities. Mr. Balogun disclosed that almost 90 percent of every business in the economy is SMEs. With the largest employment, he stressed that a lot of international organizations are willing to invest in SMEs but noted that SMEs require a platform and skills to access the needed finance, the Frontpage Africa newspaper reports

Over L$13 Million Raised from Ticket Sales at 2024 National County Sports Meet

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has announced that a total of L$13.5 million and US$31,200 were raised from ticket sales during the 2024 National County Sports Meet. According to Youth and Sports Minister J. Cole Bangalu, these amounts cover the quarterfinals, semifinals, third place, and grand finals. Addressing the media on Thursday, Minister Bangalu reaffirmed his commitment to making transparency the hallmark of the Ministry’s operations, stating that the National County Sports Meet is no exception. He emphasized that the event was not conducted in the manner he desired because it was planned and organized before he became Minister.Minister Bangalu revealed that ticket duplication by employees of the printing press contracted to print the tickets significantly reduced income from the quarter-finals to the grand finals. He disclosed that a vehicle containing thousands of tickets and about half a million Liberian dollars was uncovered, leading to several arrests. The case is being forwarded to court, the Frontpage Africa newspaper reports.

Lawmakers Who Voted to Pardon Four Officials for Violating PPCC Law now want Executive to Abide by Tenured Law

According to the Frontpage Africa newspaper, barely few days after voting to pardon three ministers and the director of the Public Procurement and Concession Commission (PPCC) for violating the PPCC law by awarding millions of dollars’ worth of contracts for road rehabilitation without a competitive bidding process, members of the Liberian Senate are again raising alleged violations of several laws passed granting tenures to heads of some corporations and agencies in the country. Last Tuesday,  the Plenary of the Liberian Senate held the Ministers of Public Works, Justice and Finance and Development Planning Roland Lafayette Giddings, Oswald Tweh, and Boima Kamara of the Unity Party-led government, including the director of the Public Procurement and Concession Commission (PPCC) liable for grossly violating the PPCC Law of the country by single sourcing  separate road contracts totaling US$22.4M to various companies operating in the country without a competitive bidding process.

Senate Probes Into Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency’s Director General Kromah, Two Deputies’ Conflict

Members of the Liberian Senate have observed that the continuous impasse and tussle between authorities at the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) is damaging the image of the country and serving as an obstacle towards the fight against drug and substance trafficking and abuse in Liberia. Mr. Abraham Kromah is the Director General of the LDEA. His two deputies for Administration and Operations include: Gbawou Kowou and Hassan Fadiga. For months now, Director Kromah and his deputies have been embroiled into misunderstanding, heated exchanges or tussle for reasons which have not been clearly established. On Monday, tussle erupted between bodyguards of Director Kromah and Deputy Director Fadiga when he (Fadiga) reportedly attempted carrying his assigned arm in the office of his boss, but was prevented from doing so by agents assigned at Director Kromah’s office. The incident turned violent when Director Kromah’s security force forcibly disarmed and confiscated the phones of Deputy Director Fadiga.The incident was put under control following the intervention of the Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP) Colonel Gregory Coleman, the Frontpage Africa newspaper writes.

Medical and Dental Council: Monrovia Health Facilities Not in “Good Standing” to Provide Adequate Healthcare Services

The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) has frowned medical facilities in Monrovia for not being up to the task to deliver adequate Healthcare services the Liberian public. The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) was established in 2010 by an act of the National Legislature to be autonomous with exclusive powers and authority to regulate and monitor medical practice within the Republic of Liberia. In January of this year, Dr. Benetta Collins Andrews was nominated as the Physicians/Surgeons Representative to LMDC and subsequently elected as the Chairperson during the first council sitting, replacing Dr. Linda Araminta Birch. Speaking to journalists at LMDC Head Office in Sinkor Tuesday, Dr. Andrews said beginning June this year, her team will be carrying on what she terms as spot checks at various health facilities in Monrovia and across the country,  the Frontpage Africa newspaper asserts.

ACE Africa Dedicates Modern Latrines and Hand Pumps to Rural Communities in Montserrado County.

In a remarkable display of commitment in working to provide water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in rural communities in Liberia, FACE Africa International, a US-based non-for-profit organization, has dedicated and turned over 71 completed household latrines and seven boreholes wells (hand pumps) to three communities in rural Bentol, Montserrado County. According to the Frontpage Africa newspaper, the projects were implemented under the auspices of several donors, including the Well-Built Foundation (founded by NBA player Malcom and wife Victoria Brogdon), Murphy’s Naturals, National Basketball Players Association Foundation (Abigail Disney & Pierre Hauser, Niraj Bhatia foundation, Carole Dubois, Nyema Tubman, George Badiel foundation) and Rotary Club of Santa Monica (USA) & Monrovia (Liberia).

Liberia Launches National Policy Dialogue Platform on Gender Equality

The Liberian Government through the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has officially launched the National Policy Dialogue Platform.The National Policy Dialogue Platform is under Component 4 of the Liberia Women Empowerment Project, and is being implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection with funding from the World Bank.
Officially performing the launch of the project at the Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Thursday, May 30, 2024, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Gbeme Horace-Kollie said the Policy Dialogue Platform is intended to support existing interventions to policies relating to gender equality, women’s economic empowerment and gender-based violence. She added that the initiative is established under the Liberia Women Empowerment Project, financed by the World Bank, noting that activities of the platform will essentially drive policy reforms and review specific areas, including gender-based violence, resilient livelihoods and climate change adaptation with the overall objective of identifying areas for policy reforms, the Frontpage Africa newspaper reports.

Mayon Foundation Donates Helmets and Reflective Vest to Motorcyclists at Duport Road Junction

The Frontpage Africa newspaper is reporting that in an effort to ensure motorcyclists abide by the Liberia National Police’s new restrictions of riding with helmets and reflective vests in Monrovia, the CEO of Mayon Foundation, Darlingboy Isiah Mayon, has donated helmets and reflective vests to motorcyclists at Duport Road Junction. Mayon Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 2014 by Mr. Darlingboy Isiah Mayon, a Liberian based in Maryland, USA. Mr. Darlingboy Isiah Mayon, CEO of Mayon Foundation on Monday, June 3, 2024, while presenting the 20 helmets and reflective vests to motorcyclists riding at Duport Road junction, said he has no political interest but is rather concerned about the wellbeing of motorcyclists. “I have no political attachment but I’m concerned about the well-being of motorcyclists because I see value in you. So, when the government proposed restricting motorcyclists, I decided to help work along with the government for the safety of all riders which remains my paramount concern. “What the government is doing isn’t bad that’s why we have come in to provide some of the materials needed for motorcyclists to ply the street as part of an effort to promote safe riding and mitigate risks of accidents and that’s why we’ve decided to work along with the government to uphold the restriction and provide these items,” CEO Mayon said.

CEO Of Gloria Orphanage Home Calls On Government and Others For Urgent Support

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gloria Orphanage Home in Grand Cape Mount County Madam Kula Moore Denis is calling for support from the Liberian Government and other humanitarian organizations. Gloria Orphanage Home was established by Madam Kula Moore Denis in 1998 in Tienii Town, Tewor District Grand Cape Mount County. According to Madam Denis, the orphanage home was previously supported by Christian Aid Liberia, but has been finding it extremely difficult to cater to over 50 orphans since the organization withdrew its support. The CEO of Gloria Orphanage Home emphasized the need for humanitarian organizations to urgently come to their aid by providing support to include; medication, educational supplies, renovation of the primary school building, stipend for teachers, clothing, and bedding among others. Asked about challenges Madam Denis continues: “the challenges are very huge, as you can see the uncompleted school building, our school building there is not plaster, we don’t have textbooks, we don’t have good blackboards, and you see the sitting capacity. Though you see the yard clean, we have challenges with the school construction, paying teachers, and getting meals for the children is very challenging”, the Frontpage Africa newspaper writes.

Government of Liberia Restores Western Cluster Road User Permit One Month After Revocation

The Ministry of Public Works Monday restored the Western Cluster Road User Permit, which was suspended on May 3, 2024, following President Joseph Boakai’s expressed dissatisfaction over the manner in which the company continued to destroy the road with their heavy-duty trucks. The restoration of the permit, however, is contingent on an agreement reached with the company to provide $200,000 for rehabilitation and expansion work on several parts of the road. It can be recalled, President Boakai, during an inspection of a road rehabilitation project in Bomi, said the company has failed to honor its Mineral Development Agreement and he had personally informed the company through its legal team of a potential closure. President Boakai warned that if the government didn’t close Western Cluster Mining Company down, Liberia would lose major bridges and it might be disastrous for the country. The Liberian leader said he will not tolerate such insensitivity by Western Cluster Mining Company in that part of the country, the Frontpage Africa newspaper reports.

House Reviews Proposed Law to Regulate Community Radio Stations

The House of Representatives is currently reviewing a proposed law aimed at providing a legal framework to regulate the ownership, management, licensing, and operations of community radio stations across Liberia. The bill, titled “An Act to Govern Community Radio Ownership, Management, Licensing, and Operations in Liberia,” was introduced by Nimba County District #2 Representative, Nyahn Garsaye Flomo. In his communication to plenary, Rep. Flomo said the bill seeks to promote and protect the independence of community radio stations around the country; ensure that community radio stations serve the public interest in their area of operations; ensure community radio is independent, impartial, and viable in promoting democracy, peace, and the cultural values of the areas they serve; promote the production of program content considering the cultural, religious, ethnic, social values, and educational needs of their host communities; and ensure the application of standards that guide against unwarranted interference in the acquisition and management of community radio broadcast licenses, the Frontpage Africa newspaper asserts.

Chie Craves US$11M For Domestic Airstrips  

Grand Kru County Senator, Albert T. Chie has pleaded with his colleagues for the allocation of US$1million each for the rehabilitation of the eleven domestic airports. Senator Chie in a communication on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, said there is a need for government to rehabilitate domestic airstrips across the country for economic growth. According to The News newspaper, senator Chie’s communication indicated that there is an economic benefit of resuscitating the domestic airports to boost the tourism sector. He said it will attract foreign interests and local investors to the domestic airports and will also support the growth of local businesses as well as facilitate domestic revenue collection. The Grand Kru County senator further said it will enhance reconnaissance activities in terms of national security surveillance, natural resources survey and the promotion of other socio-economic activities depend on the domestic airports.

Senate goes for Retreat

The Liberian Senate will on June 6, 2024 converge in the port city of Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, for a four-day retreat. The retreat runs up to June 9. According to the Senate Press Bureau, the retreat will be held under the theme: ‘Ensuring a robust Senate Oversight’. It is aimed at making revitalization plans of the County Development Fund which is geared towards positively impacting the wellbeing of Liberians. The senators will also review and amend the Senate rules where possible, as well as place its modernization vision in proper perspectives.  According to The News newspaper the Press Bureau said during the four-day retreat senators will endeavor to discuss and produce amongst other things, a compelling roadmap agenda which will address an effective decision-making goal.

“US$25 For Motorcycle Registration”….Transport Minister Tells Lawmakers

Transport Minister, Sirleaf Tyler has informed the House of Representatives that the ministry is only charging motorcyclists US$25 for registration. Minister Tyler made the statement on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 when he appeared before that august body to provide detailed explanations on the current policies regulating transport activities in the country. Minister Tyler said the registration price for motorbikes was brought down to US$25 and is the cheapest around the world, implying that motorcyclists will be paying just US$2.8 cents monthly. “We call Insurance Association of Liberia, Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) and Ministry of Transport came up with US$85 for motorbikes insurance fees and US$ 7.8 per month,” Minister Tyler said. According to him, the ministry pleaded with insurance association for motorbikes insurance but was told that motorcycle accidents are many and the policy was not enough. Minister Tyler further said there has been no formal agreement with any motorcycle union to collect government revenue and the ministry has been on radio severally urging people to do their registration directly with it rather than giving monies to outsiders, The News newspaper says.

 Judiciary Wants 2024 Budget Revisited

The Judicial Branch of the Liberian government is calling on the Executive and Legislature to revisit the 2024 budgetary allocation to the judiciary The Judiciary wants immediate actions taken to address what they called “Very serious issue.” The Judiciary through the Supreme Court, rejected appropriations in the 2024 fiscal budget. The Judiciary noticed that the appropriation or allocation of US$17 million and a one-off “contingency amount of US$3 million constituting 2.8% of the National Budget as an imposition by both the Legislature and Executive Branches. Whilst the Supreme Court acknowledges and upholds the power bestowed upon the Legislature to “Make appropriations for the fiscal governance of the Republic” as enshrined in Article 34(d) of the Liberian Constitution [1986), the court has also upheld the long standing principle of constitutional interpretation which states in part, “the constitution must be interpreted in light of the entire document rather than a sequestrated pronouncement, as every provision of the constitution is of equal importance. The Supreme Court said none of the provisions of the constitution should be interpreted to nullify or substantially impair the other provisions. “It is within this legal context that Chapter VIl of the Liberian Constitution [1986] and the supporting statutes within the New Judiciary Law, impose a legal obligation upon the Judiciary Branch to effectively and efficiently manage the Supreme Court of Liberia and all of its administrative units, 22 Circuit Courts across the 15 political subdivisions of this country along with its judges and staff, 75 Specialized Courts across the 15 political subdivisions of this country with their judges and staff as well as 160 Magisterial Courts also across the 15 political subdivisions of this country with their magistrates and staff in order to ensure that the Rule of Law prevails within the borders of our country,” the court added, The News newspaper discloses.

Education Conducts Monitoring In Five Counties

According to The News newspaper, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Liberia Learning Foundation (LLF), has commenced a comprehensive monitoring of project in Sinoe, Rivergee, Rivercess, Maryland, and Bomi Counties. According to a press release, the LLF project is funded by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) and the World Bank. The Ministry said the initiative reinforces its dedication to enhancing educational infrastructure and improving learning outcomes for children across Liberia. The process will is expected to last for 11 days. The LLF projects aim to elevate educational standards in rural areas through the construction and renovation of schools, provision of learning materials, teacher training programs and the implementation of modern teaching methodologies. “Our goal is to ensure that every child, irrespective of their geographic location, have access to quality education,” the release said. This monitoring program will focus on assessing the progress of school construction and renovation projects to ensure timely completion and adherence to quality standards. It also aims at evaluating the effectiveness of teacher training programs and the utilization of new learning materials to meet the educational needs of students. The release revealed that these assessments will also “gather feedback from stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and ensure the sustainability of LLF projects, as findings and recommendations will be instrumental in making necessary adjustments to enhance the success and sustainability of these initiatives. The Ministry of Education reassures of its commitment to provide a suitable learning environment for students, and the LLF projects are a significant step towards achieving this goal.

GT Bank’s Staff On The Run…Court Issues Arrest Warrant

An arrest warrant has been issued for the Vault Custodian at GT Bank Liberia for allegedly stealing over seventy eight thousand United States dollars (US$78,000) from the bank. Magistrate Ben Barco ordered the arrest of Fabrizo Siryon based on a complaint from the management of GT Bank. Magistrate Barco’s arrest order instructed court officers backed by armed police to arrest defendant Siryon to face prosecution in connection to the amount in question. In addition to the arrest order, the court has also issued a travel ban on the defendant. The court’s order has been circulated to all entry points to have the defendant arrested if he attempts leaving the country. On May 16, 2024, defendant Fabrizo Siryon as Vault Custodian, purposely and intentionally stole and made away with said amount without the will and consent of GT Bank Liberia, absconded and placed himself into hiding, an indictment disclosed. He allegedly converted the entity’s money to his personal use and benefit with the intent to deprive GT Bank, The News newspaper says.

 CSA Deputy Director Recognized

The Deputy Director General For Human Resource Management and policy at the Civil Service Agency (CSA), Darlington Smith has been recognized by a group under the banner ‘’concerned Journalist Association of Liberia’’ (COJAL) for his personal contribution to individuals and his working in government. Smith also received the certificate of honor as the Outstanding Public Administrator of the year 2023-2024. Speaking Wednesday, June 5,2024 at the presentation ceremony in Congo Town the Executive Director of COJAL, Aloysius S.S Chea said, ‘’This certificate if honor is awarded to Darlington Smith in Sincere recognition of your workings in government , especially at Civil Service Agency in terms of Proper representation and your personal contribution to individuals.’’ Chea further stated,’’ The Management and staff of COJAL do hereby award his certificate of honor as Outstanding Public  Administrator of the year 2023-2024, The News newspaper writes.

CEMENCO Connects to LEC’s Grid Joins US Embassy, UN One Plaza, UCI, Others as customers

The country’s only cement manufacturing and distribution company, the Liberia Cement Corporation (CEMENCO), has finally and formally been connected to the grid of the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC).CEMENCO is said to be the biggest customer of LEC amongst many customers. The commissioning program of the LEC connection to the CEMENCO Factory in Mamba Point was held on Wednesday 5th June 2024. CEMENCO has been connected to an approximately 1 km circuit — 22kV medium voltage line which emanates from the 2 x 10 MVA Stockton Creek substation and terminates at the CEMENCO's 7.5MVA transformer station. According to The News newspaper, the discussion of the national grid between the two entities began in December 2022, and in January 2023 a team of engineers from the Liberia Electricity Corporation carried out a technical assessment to establish the technical and financial requirements to connect the CEMENCO to LEC’s grid. By March 2023, the Liberia Electricity Corporation had finalized the design of a dedicated circuit for the connection of Liberia Cement Corporation to the LEC grid.  Works on this line commenced in May 2023 and the commissioning of the works was done on April 19, 2024, with the energization of CEMENCO's transformer.“ Today marks the formal commissioning of the LEC connection to the CEMENCO Factory and CEMENCO which may be the largest entity and will be joining the US Embassy, One UN Plaza, the UCI, and others are already on the LEC’s grid,” said Monie Captan, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of LEC.

Judiciary Strangulated! Supreme Court Accuses Legislature, Executive of cheating in 2024 budget allocations

Globally, there is an increasing recognition among policymakers as to the centrality of the concept of the rule of law to economic development and political cohesion, especially in the context of achieving Sustainable Development Goals. And that is why states, in appropriating the judiciary in their budgets, strategically countenance the role of the judiciary in the process of national wealth creation. It is from this perspective that the budgetary allocation to the Judiciary in the 2024 National budget is being vehemently rejected by the Supreme Court. The Court has expressed dissatisfaction with the allocation, citing it as “grossly inadequate” and potentially hindering the judiciary’s capacity to function effectively. At the heart of the issue is the allocation of a meager 2.8% of the US$738 million of the 2024 national budget, while the Legislature and Executive claim significantly larger portions. This discrepancy has led the Supreme Court to accuse the other branches of government of disregarding the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law and constitutional principles. The budget allocated to the Judiciary is US$17 million and a one-off contingency amount of US$3 million constitutes 2.8%. While the legislators took to themselves 13.84% and 83.36% to the Executive. These allocations, the Supreme Court sees the distribution as an “abuse of the power” given to the Legislature under Article 34(d) of the 1986 Constitution, and that the appropriation undermines the function of another branch of government, which they are not prepared to accept, the Daily Observer newspaper reports.

50% of LIFT Project Funds to Benefit Women-Owned Businesses

Three financial institutions - Citi Trust, Afriland Bank, and the Liberia Enterprise Development Finance Company (LEDFC) - have earmarked 50% of the Liberia Investment, Finance, and Trade (LIFT) project funds for businesses owned by Liberian women. This initiative, funded by the World Bank Group, aims to strengthen the country’s economy by supporting local women entrepreneurs. The LIFT project includes a Line of Credit (LOC) that provides US$6 million to participating financial institutions for eligible small and medium enterprises, along with an additional US$1 million for technical assistance to PFIs and the CBL. It also targets MSMEs owned or managed by women, encourages long-term financing with loan maturities of up to five years, and provides technical assistance and training to all interested financial institutions. LEDFC CEO Ambrose Houphouet, who spoke recently on behalf of the financial institutions at the signing of the agreements between them and the Government, through the Ministry of Commerce and the Central Bank of Liberia to participate in the Line of Credit (LOC), emphasized their unwavering commitment to the initiative. “We pledge to deploy the funds primarily to Liberian-owned MSMEs, with 50% earmarked for women-owned businesses,” said Houphouet. He noted that the LIFT fund marks a departure from conventional lending, offering more favorable loan terms, interest rates, principal repayment schedules, and collateral requirements, the Daily Observer newspaper pens. 

FLY, USAID Host Youth Conference on Conservation, Sustainability

The Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) joined hands to host a National Youth Conference on Conservation and Sustainability, with the theme, “Empowering Youth to Protect Liberia's Future. “The conference, which took place at the Bella Casa Hotel in Monrovia, featured key figures in government, conservation, and youth advocacy. Key attendees at the conference were Hon. Frank Saah Foko, Representative of District 9, Montserrado County, and Chairperson of the Youth Legislative Caucus; Ezekiel Nyanfor, Executive Director of the Liberia Youth Climate Action; Dr. James Desmond, Chief of Party, Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue and Protection; Jerry Yonmah, Technical Manager, FDA Conservation Department; Samuel James Kpartor, National Program Manager, Federation of Liberia Youth (FLY); and Ms. Banica Stephanie Elliott, President, FLY. Nyanfor delivered an impactful keynote address that underscored the critical role of Liberia’s youth in addressing environmental challenges such as biodiversity loss, pollution, and global warming. He highlighted the pressing need for sustainable conservation practices to safeguard Liberia’s natural heritage and ecosystem services. Nyanfor stressed the importance of youth engagement in driving conservation efforts, advocating for stronger policies, and enforcing existing regulations for environmental protection and sustainable development. He said Liberia’s lush forests, vibrant wetlands, and diverse ecosystems are not just resources; they are the very essence of Liberia’s identity, the Daily Observer newspaper writes.

LDEA Raids Criminal Hideout in Ganta Dozen rounded up

The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency, Nimba  Chaper has conducted a series of raids in Ganta, arresting dozens of criminals, mainly drug addicts. The LDEA in collaboration with new Ganta City Authority, stormed every criminal hideout across Ganta, rounding up drug users and dealers, among others. Two ladies, a mother of two and three, Norah Garteh and Lisa Dennis, were among those arrested and expressed regret but said they had no alternative to support their children. Both single parents were arrested with some parcels or quantities of marijunana, which they sold daily to sustain their children. Randolph Bartuah, another detainee, said he was arrested with some quantities of tramadol table-like narcotic substance), but explained that he got involved in dealing with the drug because of hardship, the Daily Observer newspaper writes.

Ganta Mayor Appeals for Equipment for City’s Maintenance

The City Mayor of Ganta City, Mr. Samuel Saye Hardt, is appealing to the central government for equipment to enhance the maintenance of the city, As he launched the massive cleaning u-up campaign in Ganta on Thursday, May 23, 2024, Mr. Hardt told the daily Observer that his main goal is to uphold the ordinance of the city to international standards. He said a clean city will make residents healthy and also attract investors. Ganta has been surrounded by a huge oil of garbage in several locations; behind the LBDI building the central mosque, and the old market, among others. ‘’As we embark on the cleaning of the city, we are going to clear all the huge pile of garbage and ensure our people live insanity’’ he said. ‘We don’t have the necessary equipment to enhance our work as we expect it explained, the Daily Observer newspaper assert.

EPA Executive Director Admonishes Communities, Schools to Prioritize Environmental Issues

Gbargna, Bong Country the Administrative Assistant to the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Timothy R. Yoko has revealed that the effects of global warning are unstable weather patterns that are causing too mu h heat and melting the blocks of ice at both the North and South poles of the Earth. Mr. Yoko,  who proxy for Yarkpawolo during the launching ceremony of the Bong Country Environmental School Club on June 5, 2024, said farmers no longer know the time and duration of the rainy season and dry season as these seasons are not as clear as they used to be in the past time. Something he said is posing serious threats to agriculture, including our rice framing, adding some places in Africa are overly dried with cattle dying from heat and lack of water. In addition to undermining framing, Liberia is facing many environmental challenges. Some people are building on the wet or swamp lands throwing dirt in the streets and constructions in alley ways, the Daily Observer newspaper reports.

Sampson Dweh Signs Permanant Deal With Viktoria Plzen

The Central defender signed a three-year deal with Plzen that will run until 2027.The former LPRC Oilers defender joined Viktoria Plzen on loan from MFK Vyškov that plays in the Czech 2^nd division league and he was very impressive during his loan spell that convinced the club to make the deal permanent. Announcing the deal on their official website Wednesday, June 5, the club said the Liberian international has established himself as a popular figure among the fans.The club statement reads: “No tension today!  Sampson Dweh is permanently moving to Victoria Plzen. According to the Frontpage Africa newspaper, he signed a contract until 2027.”Viktoria exercised the option of buying the player at the end of the loan as a way of preventing bigger clubs from taking the promising defender from them.Sampson Dweh came to Victoria a year ago from Vyškov. First, for a test match, in which he convinced Coach Miroslav Koubek of his qualities and won a one-year loan with an option. The 22-year-old defender has been instrumental in his team’s journey in Europa Conference league and in their domestic competition at the Doosan Arena.